By Elaine J. Jones
The Intelligencer Journal/New Era
MANOR TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Firefighting was a hot topic in Manor Township on Monday, when the board of supervisors voted unanimously to consolidate services with Millersville Borough, following the borough’s lead.
The consolidation would involve the merger of four volunteer fire companies: Millersville, West Lancaster, Washington Boro and Highville. The proposed new fire company would be stationed on Blue Rock Road.
Chairman John May opened the discussion by saying he strongly favors the move. Board member Jay Breneman concurred, adding that they must now focus on funding.
The consolidated company will require $521,000 per year to operate, and the township would assume nearly three-quarters of the cost, based on population.
Without proper funding for increased training, Breneman said, the two municipalities could be in the same boat as Manheim Township, which recently had to create four paid, part-time fire positions.
Both May and Breneman serve on a task force which met Thursday and recommended the merger.
Several firefighters also were present for the discussion. A member of the Highville Fire Company thanked the board for its vote and said the chief is looking forward to moving ahead.
In other business, a number of residents from Townhouse Lane, near the township office, complained about the recent placement of large recycling bins behind their homes. Residents claim the “Dumpsters” are an eyesore and a nuisance, and that people are dumping “anything” in them and driving too fast in the process.
May responded that the township opted to relocate the bins from Charlestown Road because they were being abused. At the present location, the township can keep watch on the recycling activity.
One resident suggested moving the recycling bins to the landfill. Board member Allen Kreider replied that the recycling location has to be somewhere that’s convenient for people or it won’t be used.
“We clearly need to explore alternatives,” May responded.
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